Even if it's not statewide, there's an example of a functional Florida local education agency (LEA) already using merit pay. As the Florida drama dies down, Texas' Social Studies standards, DC's crazy surplus debate (and requisite suing), and Goodwin Liu's confirmation hearing take over. Or, get more ephemeral with big moral questions: when is it ok to tell a student to shape up or ship out? To discriminate based on sexual orientation? To teach Mein Kampf in school?
--Daniela Fairchild, Fordham intern